Division 2.1 Insertion of marker genes and other nucleic acid(s) sequences not essential to achieve the desired trait

In order to facilitate the risk assessment, the applicant shall endeavour to minimise the presence of inserted nucleic acid(s) sequences not essential to achieve the desired trait.

During the process of genetic modification of plants and other organisms, marker genes are often used to facilitate the selection and identification of genetically modified cells, containing the gene of interest inserted into the genome of the host organism, among the vast majority of untransformed cells. The applicant shall carefully select such marker genes and Article 4(2) of Directive 2001/18/EC shall be respected. Against that background, the applicant shall therefore aim to develop GMOs without the use of antibiotic resistance marker genes.